3D Printer Revolutionized Hip Replacement Surgery

Customized joint replacement surgeries: Doctors send 3D file of the patient’s CT scan to a 3D printer which will then print out a 3D model of patient’s hip joint.

Joint replacements have been around for a long time. Most people with conditions such as osteoarthritis can expect good results if they have one. But what about those who have complicated cases or unusual deformities that a standard replacement can’t fix? In the past that’s meant few options. Now, doctors at Mayo Clinic are using 3D printers to enable customized joint replacement surgeries. Many patients, who were out of luck, can now have a successful surgery and better quality of life.